I’m a middle-aged minivan-kind-of-guy. As are my friends. And there are only two things we talk about when it comes to buying a new car: We all want a Tesla. If we can’t have a Tesla — the new Honda van has a BUILT-IN VACUUM CLEANER! That simple extra feature has dominated the word of […]

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Subaru gives their drivers these badges to stick on their car. Each badge shows their favorite activities. My dad got photography and kayaking. Smart, smart, smart. It’s not just another car dealer logo or “turbo.” It’s about the customer, not the car. It makes your car into YOUR car — and gives you a reason […]

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Everyone knows about the flower vase in the VW Beetle. They may know nothing else about the car or VW. But they can have a conversation about this silly little thing. If you’re struggling to find a reason for people to talk about your business — maybe you’re making it too complicated. You only need […]

I taught word of mouth marketing at Northwestern University and internet entrepreneurship at the Wharton School of Business. I’m a serial entrepreneur who founded and advises startups and nonprofits. And I’m a rabid purist on the topic of marketing ethics.

About This Blog

"Damn, I Wish I'd Thought of That!" is full of unusually useful ideas borrowed from the smartest marketers. Good marketing is more about brains than bucks. The best business ideas are easy to do, inexpensive, simple, and fun. Learn to simplify your business, earn word of mouth, and thrill your customers.